How does Song of Solomon 6:7 reflect God's view of inner beauty? Setting the Scene Song of Solomon 6:7: “Your temples behind your veil are like the halves of a pomegranate.” The groom admires the bride’s “temples” (cheeks or the upper area of the face) that peek out from behind her veil. Ancient Hebrew poetry delights in concrete images; here, the pomegranate—split open—reveals a rich, ruby interior packed with countless seeds. In praising what is partly concealed, the verse invites us to consider the beauty that resides beneath the surface. The Imagery Explained • Pomegranate halves – bursting with vibrant color, fragrance, and life. • Temples behind the veil – features not fully on display, highlighting what is hidden rather than what is flaunted. • Seed-filled core – symbol of fruitfulness and depth, pointing to qualities that endure and multiply. Inner Beauty Highlighted • God’s spotlight rests on character that is often unseen. • True loveliness, like the pomegranate’s interior, is rich, multilayered, and life-giving. • In the marriage picture threaded through Song of Solomon, the bride’s inward qualities are as cherished as her outward appearance. Echoes Throughout Scripture • 1 Samuel 16:7 – “The LORD does not see as man does. For man sees the outward appearance, but the LORD sees the heart.” • 1 Peter 3:3-4 – “Your beauty should not come from outward adornment… but from the inner disposition of your heart, the unfading beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is precious in God’s sight.” • Proverbs 31:30 – “Charm is deceptive and beauty is fleeting, but a woman who fears the LORD is to be praised.” • 2 Corinthians 4:16 – “Though our outer self is wasting away, yet our inner self is being renewed day by day.” • Matthew 5:8 – “Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God.” Living This Truth Today • Cultivate hidden virtues—love, purity, humility—knowing God treasures them. • Let modesty and restraint provide a “veil” that draws attention to Christlike character. • Aim for beauty that outlasts time: the fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23). • Encourage others by affirming the qualities God praises—faithfulness, gentleness, integrity—rather than fleeting externals. |
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